General Information

The Master of Science (M.Sc.) program in “Human-Centered Intelligent Systems” is structured to provide an in-depth understanding and hands-on experience in the rapidly evolving domain of intelligent interactive systems, blending artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and system design. It is a response to several key developments and needs in the field:

  • Advancements in AI: Recent advancements in AI, particularly in areas like deep learning, have revolutionized the capabilities of interactive systems, from image recognition and natural language processing to generating content across text, image, audio, and video. Central to this are foundational models and a mix of learning methods that incorporate simulation and informed learning. Moreover, the practical aspects, including the deployment and ongoing learning of AI-based systems, are also addressed.
  • Human-Computer Interaction: How to shape the interaction with AI-infused systems has opened up new frontiers in HCI research and practice. From conversational user interfaces (CUIs) like voice-controlled assistants and generative AI systems using large language models to avatars in virtual and augmented reality, the way we interact with digital systems is changing profoundly. These technologies bear the promise of more intuitive and accessible interfaces for a more inclusive digital world, but they also carry the potential of a future full of annoying, biased, inhumane systems surrounding us if we do not pay attention to their interaction design.
  • Social impact and ethics: Allowing AI systems into our lives has profound implications for society at large. Technologists can no longer build and release products without considering the impact of these systems on their users and society.
  • Industry demand and skill gap: Industry demand for professionals with expertise in both AI and HCI is skyrocketing. However, there is a notable gap between the skills needed and the expertise available in the workforce. This program aims to bridge that gap by equipping students with both the technical and methodological knowledge, skills, and competencies to work at the intersection of AI and HCI and help shape a desirable future of living with intelligent interactive systems. It combines a strong academic university education with practical labs at participating Fraunhofer institutes.

Goals of the Program

The HCIS program aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary for leadership roles. While a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science qualifies individuals for participation in large software projects, the Master’s degree focuses on technical innovation, system architecture, and project management. Graduates emerge with a solid foundation to tackle challenges in this dynamic field, including competencies in core areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Interactive Technologies.

These accomplished graduates can work across diverse domains, including interactive systems, information technology, communication technology, Artificial Intelligence, and more. Their robust background in human-centered interactive systems prepares them for tomorrow’s industry and research challenges. Additionally, they excel in problem-solving, considering both technical and business aspects. They are adept at presenting scientific and technical information effectively, both orally and in writing.

In summary, the program empowers graduates to apply methods and techniques within the broad realm of HCI, solve complex problems independently, and develop relevant solutions within a rigorous scientific context. Exceptional students may even pursue doctoral degrees based on their achievements during the Master’s program.

Career Opportunities

Computer scientists with an applied focus have been in great demand in the past, and this trend is expected to continue for the foreseeable future. 

With an M.Sc. degree in HCIS you will be well-prepared for the typical challenges faced when working in computer systems engineering and for creative work with machine learning.

The alumni of HCIS can continue their PhD studies in Germany or abroad or work at prestigious companies. In a survey by the Economics journals Wirtschaftwoche and Handelsblatt in 2009 the head recruiters of the biggest German companies were asked to evaluate the universities in Germany. In the ranking RWTH Aachen was selected as best university in Germany. RWTH Aachen secured a first place not only in one but directly in five categories. The alumni with a degree of RWTH Aachen are deemed to be best prepared for the job and are preferred to be hired by the companies. That result has been confirmed in consecutive years, e.g. in 2013. The research quality of it's Computer Science department was once again also confirmed in the 2009 edition of the prestigious CHE Rating by the weekly ZEIT. As one of only four universities in the German-speaking countries it again reached the top research rating. Quite a number of our alumni thus do a PhD after their study (at RWTH Aachen, University of Bonn, or other universities in Germany or abroad).

The ABCD region (Aachen, Bonn, Cologne, Duesseldorf) is home to many prospective employers, including global players such as Microsoft, Philips, Ericsson, Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone, Bertelsmann Group, as well as many television stations such as WDR, VIVA, etc. and about 2/3 of our alumni stay in Germany. The others return to their home country or work in other countries of the EU or abroad.